On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $69,906 in Norway (Oslo) versus $58,173 in Sweden (National Average) — a difference of $11,733/year ($978/month).
Tax Breakdown Comparison
Norway
2025 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$69,906
$5,825/mo
Effective Rate
30.1%
of gross
Sweden
2025 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$58,173
$4,848/mo
Effective Rate
41.8%
of gross
Effective Tax Rate by Income
Shows effective tax rate (total tax / gross income) at different income levels in USD
Life & Taxes
What it's like to live and earn in each country
Nordic Neighbors, Different Vibes
Whether you are a tech developer heading to Stockholm's 'Unicorn Factory' or an engineer chasing the fjords in Oslo, moving between these giants is a classic expat rite of passage. While Sweden offers a cosmopolitan, design-forward lifestyle, Norway lures those seeking rugged nature and the world's most robust mountainous playground.
The Daily Grind Luxury
Life in Sweden revolves around 'fika' and a highly structured social equality, whereas Norway’s wealth from the sea translates into a slightly higher cost of living balanced by incredible public infrastructure. Both countries prioritize a work-life balance that makes 'overtime' feel like a forgotten concept, focusing instead on family and the great outdoors.
Two Paths to Contribution
Sweden keeps it simple with a two-tier system dominated by a flat municipal rate, making your paycheck predictable from the start. Norway uses a more granular 'bracket tax' approach that scales gradually with your success, ensuring that as you climb the career ladder, your contribution evolves alongside your salary.
The Ultimate Safety Net
In both nations, your taxes act as a massive insurance policy for life, covering everything from world-class healthcare to generous parental leave. While Swedes benefit from a fully tax-credited pension fee, Norwegians contribute via the 'Trygdeavgift' to maintain one of the most envied social security systems on the planet.
The Bottom Line
Choosing between them isn't just about the math; it's about whether you prefer Sweden's streamlined tax simplicity or Norway's progressive, nature-funded stability. If you want a vibrant urban culture with a clear tax ceiling, go Swedish; if you want a wealth-backed social fortress with a gradual tax climb, Norway is your winner.
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